The District of Columbia's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner released preliminary findings indicating that Senator Lindsey Graham suffered an aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease before his death. Graham, 71, was pronounced dead at George Washington University Hospital at 10:23 p.m. on Saturday, as stated in a joint announcement from the Metropolitan Police Department and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. An autopsy was conducted on Sunday.
The medical examiner noted that the findings are preliminary and that Graham's death certificate will remain pending while toxicological and microscopic testing is completed. The office stated, "The preliminary examination findings were: Aortic Dissection due to Arteriosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease."
An aortic dissection is described as a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, the body's largest artery, which can lead to severe internal bleeding or organ damage. Arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease refers to the accumulation of plaque inside the arteries, which can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of serious heart and vascular complications.
Graham's death, which occurred on Saturday night, has prompted tributes from colleagues across the political spectrum, acknowledging his decades of public service and influence on significant Senate debates. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will provide updates on Graham's death certificate once the necessary testing is completed.